“My mentor is just the best person that I’ve had… My mentor has helped me believe in myself more. It helps to have someone to talk things through with.”
“You have helped me achieve so much. I don’t know where I would be without you. I’m so glad I chose to get a mentor!”
These are just some of the words from young people who are benefiting from the MCR Pathways programme in Argyll and Bute. Designed to boost confidence, raise ambitions and change futures, the programme was introduced by the Council in 2023 and matches care experienced and other disadvantaged and vulnerable young people with adult mentors. The volunteers provide one hour a week of dedicated time within the school environment to engage in a range of activities which support the young person.
Young people are supported to unlock their potential, realise their skills and progress to positive destinations, no matter their circumstances.
The latest figures show the programme is going from strength to strength. In the past year alone, 238 young people took part, with 153 matched to a dedicated mentor and volunteers giving more than 2,500 hours of their time.
The impact on young people has been striking:
- 97% say their relationships with adults has improved
- 92% report increased confidence
- 93% feel clearer about their future
- 95% say mentoring is helping them move towards a positive destination
MCR Pathways initially started as a one-year pilot in three secondary schools - Dunoon Grammar, Hermitage Academy and Oban High School in 2023 and as of November 2025 the programme has expanded to nine secondary schools across Argyll and Bute with plans being developed to introduce the programme to another secondary school.
Mentoring has helped young people rebuild confidence, re-engage with school and take steps towards careers they once thought were out of reach – from securing apprenticeships to gaining college places.
At the heart of the programme are the relationships built between young people and their mentors. Mentors say they get just as much out of the experience:
“The best thing about mentoring a young person for me is knowing that I can make a difference and encourage them to be anything and everything they want to be. Every time my mentee smiles, it brings me such joy knowing that I have been a part of the small but significant changes. ”
“Knowing that I'm making an impact on her life, even if it's just a little, is very fulfilling to know that I'm able to help and support a young person. “
Another added:
“It’s very rewarding… I always feel better after the session.”
Councillor Kieron Green, Policy Lead for Education, said:
“This programme is making a real and lasting difference to young people across Argyll and Bute.
It’s about more than statistics – it’s about giving young people someone in their corner who believes in them and helps them see what they can achieve.
I’d like to thank all our volunteer mentors whose time, commitment and care are helping to transform lives and create brighter futures. With the programme continuing to grow, we’re now looking for more people to volunteer as mentors. Just one hour a week can help change a young person’s future. If you think you can make a difference and would like to help, please get in touch.”
For more information about becoming a mentor visit https://mcrpathways.org/
